Refuel and Refill for the New Crew’s Startup

For today’s toolbox tip, let’s teach new crew members the basics. Refill. And top it off.

Make sure each piece of equipment on the job gets a good walk-around to ensure it’s ready for the shift. You don’t want a loose hose bringing the roller to a stop on a hot mat this afternoon.

Make sure each machine is fully fueled. Operators should know to keep an eye on fuel gauges during the day. General laborers should help track fuel needs as equipment gets into hour 5, 6, 7, and so on, so the fuel truck, lube truck or whatever auxiliary vehicle you use can be on the spot to keep things moving smoothly.

Make sure each machine with a water tank has sufficient water. Once again, operators will keep an eye on tank levels, and general laborers should know they’ll be helping with this task. Bring the water truck close enough at the requisite time to get rollers, mills, sweepers, etc., refilled and back to duty.

Use the tailgate talk at the beginning of the shift to make sure all members of the team are starting up fully fueled as well. Did everyone get a good night’s rest? These workers need to be present and alert, ready to react if a distracted driver is heading into the work zone. Make sure everyone knows where the potable water sources are and everyone has his head in the right space for a safe and productive day of paving.